We get it, times are tough, especially with the price in petrol, inflation, and everything else. But it doesn't mean you and the kids need to stay home, be bored stiff, and become a couch potato. In a city full of fun activities, there is something for anyone and everyone, even if you're on a tight budget. Here are a few awesome entertainment options for kids under R150!
Please note: The costs for each of these activities were correct at the time of writing (January 2025) and are subject to change at any given time. Please contact the venues or organisers to confirm the entry costs for each destination before you visit.
Montecasino Bird Gardens
- Costs: R115 per adult | R75 per child ages between 2 and 12 years
This one is always a goodie! Not only will you and your children enjoy some sunshine and fresh air, but you'll also get to see and experience all of the beautiful and vibrant feathery residents at the Montecasino Bird Gardens. There's also the Flamingo Café if you're looking for a refreshing treat, interesting reptile shows, and many other unique animals that call this destination home.
The Johannesburg Zoo
- Cost: R132 per adult | R78 per child
Another firm family favourite, The Johannesburg Zoo is just the place it experience a wide range of animals while enjoy the outdoors. And throughout the year, the zoo hosts a variety of events, inclusing the much-anticipated Mother's Day Concert, Owl'Oween during Halloween, the Festival of Lights during the holiday season, and the Zoo Trot to keep guests active.
The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
- Cost: R60 per adult | R40 per child between 3 to 18 years | Family ticket: 2 adults and 2 children under 18 – R180
After all these years, the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is still an educational and entertainment hotspot in the heart of the city. Housing over 350 science, technology and maths exhibitions, it's the perfect place for your children (and you) to learn about weird and wonderful things while having fun.
James Hall Museum of Transport
- Cost: FREE | Donations are welcome for maintenance of the museum
The James Hall Museum of Transport in Johannesburg is the largest and most comprehensive museum of land transport in South Africa. This museum is a definite must-visit if you happen to find yourself in La Rochelle. Spend the day view and admiring old antique fire engines, animal-drawn vehicles, coaches, motorcycles, buses and cars that date back to as early as 1870.
Jozi X Adventures
- Cost: Activity costs start from R100 per person
Looking for a little bit of adventure? Then Jozi X Adventures is just the place! There are plenty of fun-filled and action-packed activities to enjoy at this cool destination. A few activities available includes the Action World Inflatable Action Games; Bag Jump; Zorbing; Nerf Wars; and the Battle Rush Obstacle Course and Mini Ninjas Obstacle Course.
Origins Centre Museum
- Cost: R90 per adult | R45 per children under 12 years with an adult | Click here to get tickets
The Origins Centre is located at the entrance to WITS University’s west campus and it celebrates the history of modern mankind. The museum is home to various displays, including collections of rock art from the Rock Art Research Institute (RARI) at WITS. They also house significant artefacts and tools from San culture, as well as evidence of resistance against colonial domination. The Origins Centre offers school tours, workshops and public exhibitions.
Soweto Towers
- Cost: R20 per person mandatory entrance fee | Activities start from R50 per person
Have you taken a trip to Soweto with your kids yet? Well, we reckon it's time to get out of your comfort zone and explore the amazing Soweto Towers in the South. For starters, don't feel pressured to do anything extreme, especially with your little ones. But, you can definitely enjoy the spectacular 360-degree view of Soweto from the viewing platform of the Western Cooling Tower. It's something everyone has to experience at least once in their lifetime. It costs only R80 per person – totally worth it! Also, there is wall climbing for R48 per person. And paintball for R160 per person.
The Ditsong National Museum of Military History
- Cost: R60 per adult | R35 per child
You and your little ones will have a great time viewing fighter planes, a submarine, loads of war memorabilia at The Ditsong National Museum of Military History. It aims to commemorate and pay homage to South Africans that have died fighting in and for their country. Walk through the various halls and see the variety of weapons, clothing, medals, planes, books, journals, and helmets.
Northgate Ice Rink
- Cost: R110 entrance fee per person + R55 per person for skate hire
Another affordable and fun-filled activity is ice skating! It's perfect if you're looking for either a wintry school holiday activity, or want to keep cool while having a blast in the summer months. If you have your own ice skates, bring them along. But there is skate hire at the Northgate Ice Rink. The kids will love it.
Scratch Patch at Gecko Jewellers and Mapatiza Mine
Cost: Prices start from R80 per bucket
Whether you’re young or young at heart, their expansive Scratch Patch promises hours of delight. With a vast array of gemstones to choose from, you can curate your very own treasure trove. Explore the patch and uncover the gems that capture your imagination, or search for specific types to complete your collection. Prices begin at R80 per bucket.
Total Ninja
Cost: R160 per person for 1 hour (slightly over, but oh so worth it!)
Total Ninja is the largest inflatable and obstacle course in the country, offering families loads of fun! Gather you loved ones and spend the day climbing, balancing, jumping and swinging across obstacles and developing your swift and stealthy Ninja skills. It's a fun activity with a fitness bonus.
Know of other ways to entertain your kids for under R150 not mentioned above? Let us know below!
